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Area pastors bring film to Hickory

When the Revs. Ann and Frank Aichinger saw "The Grace Card" movie, they knew it had to come to Hickory.

The problem was that the film, scheduled for release Feb. 25, was only available for screening in larger cities like Charlotte and Raleigh.

The Aichingers, who are co-pastors at New Vision Church in Conover, saw "The Grace Card" in November during a special pre-screening event. They learned that, although the film wasn't set to appear in Catawba County movie theaters, there was something they could do to change that.

"(Film officials) said, 'If you want it to come to your area, somebody has to take charge of it,'" Ann said.

And that's what she did.

Ann worked with filmmakers, as well as Carmike Cinemas' corporate owners. She received a packet containing publicity information about the movie to spark interest in movie-goers.

About 50 people attended a Jan. 25 prescreening, and Ann said the film received rave reviews. "The Grace Card" is the story of a police officer plagued by grief after his son is hit and killed by a car. The man joins forces with his police partner, and together, the two learn learn to work as a team and move past their differences.

"It was about a grace that was real," Frank said. "It's about something that happens in real life. People can relate to it."

Ann received word last week that the film was slated for release at Carmike 14 on Catawba Valley Boulevard Southeast in Hickory. The movie will be shown Friday at 1:30 p.m., 4:15 p.m., 7:05 p.m. and 9:35 p.m. Showings will continue through March 3.

If the film does well in Hickory, Ann said there's an opportunity for similar films to continue coming to Carmike 14 in Hickory for movie showings.

The film is related PG-13 for some violence and thematic elements, but the Aichingers said it's a great film for families, co-workers, friends or anyone looking for a little grace in their lives.

"There needs to be a sense of reconciliation among people, not only in our community, but also in our world," Ann said. " ... It's also great for the people for the people who need a grace card extended to them."

The Aichingers plan on incorporating themes from "The Grace Card" into their upcoming Lent sermon series. They have supplemental information about the movie, as well as discussion materials, if anyone is interested. Contact Ann at New Vision church at (828) 464-1330.